If you are in foster care, under 21 and undocumented make sure your social worker or lawyer has referred you to the DCFS Special Immigrant Juvenile Status Unit (” SIJS”). SIJS leads directly to permanent residence (a green card).
You qualify for SIJS if:
- You are under the age of 21.
- A court finds that you have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by one or both of your parents.
- It is not in your best interest to return to your home country.
- If you are not in foster care, but you are under 21 (or in certain cases under 18) and undocumented you may still qualify for SIJS.
DO NOT APPLY FOR SIJS WITHOUT THE HELP OF AN ATTORNEY.
These organizations will help for free or almost free:
Public Counsel
Catholic Charities of Los Angeles
Esperanza Immigration Project
The Immigration Center for Women and Children